stc67 nice pics ,some real foam in that 6'6, be interesting to hear reports on how the potatonator performs, iam similiar weight to you and weighing up pros and cons of a 6'2 or to go some more volume up to 6'4 possibly

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Hey Suncoast, let me get a set of fins dialed in on it and I'd be happy to give you a go. I'm pretty sure the factory has a 6'2 demo so between the 2 you should be able to get a good idea.

I have been working on volume which I am finding is a good guide. Around 50 litres seems to be my number ( i have had a 2 shoulder reconstructions and only have 85% strength in one of them) My Elf is only 44 litres and I notice it when paddling around. In nice waves it's fine, but it can be a challenge in a 2 hour session, particulary if there is a rip. interesting my Hellfire is just under 50litres and I find it paddles as well if not better than the Elf despite having more rocker.

Not sure what to expect with the PN but I don't intended getting a Potato so purposely when a bit higher in volume to help in the smaller stuff.

The first surf was a punchy little beachbreak and it just didn't quite feel right. Probably not the right conditions, I was having hard time working out where "centred" was on the board while paddling and the few waves I got I could feel the wide tail in the hollow wave. Probably should have been on the Elf or an Addvance for me.

A few surfs and I have the "centre" thing worked out and it paddles really well. 1 standout session was a shoulder high fullish point break. I think it was the the perfect conditions for it, more vertical than i have been able too surf on any other board including more favourite Addvance, nice cutties better than I have done for many years. I also had no problem getting my share when surrounded by longboards so no issues with paddling.

One thing I have noticed is that it doesn't like to be ridden forward like the Elf does. It bogs down a bit where the Elf just slips along at pace. I need to practice more staying on the tail and cutting back closer to the pocket more often. Still riding it as a thruster with Pancho Sullivans but have some AM2 quads order so looking forward to trying those. Didn't like the Controllers in it but might try the Pancho sides and the Controller rears.

Hi I am new to this forum stuff I read the posts but never comment.
I just recently got on board Firewires and am blown away.

I ride a 5'10 Hellfire and just bought a 5,8 Pn for junk days.
I feel that a 5,6 might have been the go but the board paddles so well and does not feel big at all.
I would recommend running as a quad because of the wide tail.
I run a set of Mr Tfx with small side bites and it handles amazing on flat weak faces.
Full round house cutties no probs.